In a major political realignment with implications for grassroots mobilization in Oyo State and across Nigeria, leading gubernatorial aspirant and former Senior Special Assistant on Diaspora Matters to the Oyo State Governor, Hon. Bolanle Aminat Sarumi (BASA), has officially joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Her announcement comes barely a month after she formally resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on June 12, citing internal disunity and what she described as “self-centred leadership” within the party.
In a statement made available to the media, BASA described her defection as a “deeply considered step” toward building a more inclusive, people-driven political future for Oyo State and Nigeria at large.
“Today marks a defining moment in my political journey and in our collective push for the Nigeria we all dream of,” she declared. “After deep reflection, wide consultations, and prayerful consideration, I am convinced that the ADC best represents the ideals of a New Nigeria.”
A passionate advocate for youth and women empowerment, BASA used the occasion to officially call on her teeming supporters, particularly her grassroots coordinators across all local governments and wards in Oyo State, to immediately align with the ADC and begin mass mobilization efforts.
“This is the time to stand up and be counted. Mobilization has begun—and the movement must grow stronger and louder than ever before,” she stated.
BASA, through her long-running Nigerian Youth and Women Rescue Mission, has built a loyal following among youth and women, whom she described as “the engine room of Nigeria’s political renewal.”
“To our vibrant young people: your energy, ideas, and passion are what this country needs. Nigeria needs your voice. To the women of Nigeria: our resilience is unmatched. Together, it’s time to rewrite the political story of this nation.”
She emphasized that her defection to ADC signals a clear break from politics-as-usual and a bold step toward building a new political culture anchored in transparency, inclusiveness, and decisive action.
“The ADC represents a clean slate—a credible platform for all Nigerians yearning for real change,” she added.
With BASA’s strong influence among grassroots networks, youth-led groups, and diaspora advocates, political observers see her move as a significant boost to the ADC’s structure and visibility in the run-up to the 2027 elections.
